Breaking Down Machismo

Shifting Definitions and Embodiments of Latino Manhood in Middle-Aged Latino Men

Bibliographic Data

ID21748486
AuthorsLuis A Valdez (0000-0002-3999-8387, Drexel University, corresponding author), Emily C Jaeger (0000-0003-4041-1616, Georgetown University), David O Garcia (0000-0001-6669-9457, University of Arizona), Derek M Griffith (0000-0003-0018-9176, Georgetown University)
Year2023
Volume17
Issue5
Pages15579883231195118-15579883231195118
Publication date2023-09-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueAmerican Journal of Men s Health (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1557-9883 • E-ISSN: 1557-9891
PublisherSAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/15579883231195118
PMID37694827
OpenAlexW4386592652
LanguageEN
Citations received17
References cited45

There is a notable gap in empirical research regarding how Latino men define and demonstrate machismo, masculinity, and manhood as well as the behavioral consequences associated with these concepts. In our study, we employed a phenomenological thematic approach to analyze 20 semi-structured individual interviews conducted with Latino men residing in South Florida. Our primary objectives were twofold: to examine (1) how do Latino men ages 35 to 60 years describe what it means to be a man and (2) what are the attributes that these men seek to show others that demonstrate their character, cultural values, and gender identity. Findings suggest that Latino men understood expectations associated with machismo and explained that fulfillment of their role as provider, protector, and head of the family was important to their perception of self. While some participants reported a desire to embody characteristics associated with traditional machismo, others strived to demonstrate character, familism, and respect and to provide financial and other instrumental support to their families. Participants reported that their transition into middle age was accompanied by a shift in their perspectives on gender roles, moving away from rigid patriarchal views. Exposure to a more fluid and flexible approach to manhood offered relief from the pressures associated with inflexible manifestations of machismo, which can have negative social, behavioral, and physical health implications. The implications of our research extend to the conceptualization of gender ideals, highlighting the need to incorporate intersectionality, role strain, precarious manhood, and culturally specific notions of manhood as foundational elements in this discourse

Conceptualization · Developmental psychology · Gender role · Intersectionality · Masculinity · Perception · Qualitative research · Sociology · Thematic analysis · Gender Roles and Identity Studies · Gender Studies · Gender, Feminism, and Media · Psychology · Social Psychology · Work-Family Balance Challenges

Tools

Open DOIOpen Access